ἀμφίβληστρον (amphiblēstron)
amphiblēstron
net
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun amphiblēstron refers specifically to a casting net or drag-net used in fishing. Its meaning comes from its root components: amphi, meaning "around," and ballein, meaning "to throw." This etymology describes the physical action of the tool—a heavy net thrown outward so it spreads wide before sinking into the water.
In the New Testament, this word appears only twice, both in the Gospel accounts of Jesus calling his first disciples (Matthew 4:18 and Mark 1:16). The sources highlight that it is distinct from other Greek words for fishing gear because it implies a net thrown by hand to encircle fish. This concrete image grounds the biblical narrative in the daily labor of Galilean fishermen.
Translators consistently render amphiblēstron as "net" or "casting-net." The term carries no abstract theological symbolism in these texts; instead, it serves as a realistic detail that places the reader directly beside the sea. It reminds us that the call to follow Jesus emerged from the ordinary, physical work of men who understood how to cast a net into deep water.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word amphiblēstron describes a specific kind of fishing net, one that is thrown by hand to encircle its catch. In the Gospels, we see Simon and Andrew using this tool right by the Sea of Galilee. It was not a passive trap but an active effort requiring skill and strength. Jesus chose men who knew this labor intimately when He called them to follow Him.
For us today, this detail reminds us that God often meets people in their daily work. The call to discipleship did not happen in a temple or a palace, but beside a lake during ordinary hours. Your own routine tasks and responsibilities are not separate from your faith; they can be the very place where you encounter Christ’s invitation.
When you feel overwhelmed by the weight of your duties, remember that Jesus saw value in the fishermen’s honest labor. He did not ask them to abandon their skills immediately but to redirect their focus. There is comfort in knowing that He walks alongside us in our daily efforts, turning ordinary moments into opportunities for grace.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- a net2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀμφίβληστρον2×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 4:18
Walking by the sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers: Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew, his brother, casting a net into the sea; for they were fishermen.
This verse introduces the scene where Jesus calls the first disciples while they are actively using their trade, grounding the divine call in a realistic setting.
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Mark 1:16
Passing along by the sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew, the brother of Simon, casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen.
Mark’s account places this moment at the very beginning of Jesus’ ministry, highlighting that the foundation of the apostolic mission was built on everyday human experience.